The Dr. Josh Axe Show

The 12 Most Important Health Metrics That Predict Longevity (What Actually Matters Beyond Weight)

13 snips
Apr 6, 2026
They run through 12 health metrics that predict lifespan across metabolic energy, cardiovascular flow, and cellular aging. Topics include fasting insulin and A1C targets, waist-to-height and visceral fat risks, and why ApoB and blood pressure matter more than simple cholesterol. They also cover VO2 max, resting heart rate, HRV, inflammation measures, and muscle strength as keys to longevity.
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INSIGHT

Waist Fat Matters More Than Body Weight

  • Waist-to-height (or waist-to-hip) ratio outperforms BMI because visceral midsection fat releases inflammatory chemicals.
  • Visceral fat around organs drives chronic inflammation, fatty liver, insulin resistance, and higher mortality.
INSIGHT

ApoB Beats LDL For Heart Risk

  • ApoB counts lipoprotein particles and predicts plaque risk better than LDL-C which measures cholesterol weight.
  • Many people have normal LDL but high ApoB and therefore higher heart attack and stroke risk.
ADVICE

Lower Blood Pressure With Diet And Supplements

  • Monitor blood pressure regularly and lower it naturally with diet, omega-3s, magnesium, garlic, and lifestyle before drugs when possible.
  • Target ~120/80 and act if it climbs into the 130s.
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